Can Chennai build taller and unlock greater value from its urban land? A proposal to raise the cap on premium Floor Space Index (FSI) to 5 or higher is still under consideration, with the Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority (CMDA) calling for wider consultations before taking a decision.

FSI determines the permissible built-up area on a plot in relation to its size. Premium FSI allows developers to construct beyond the permissible limit by paying an additional charge to the government, subject to planning regulations. Raising its existing cap can allow developers to add more floors or increase the built-up area of projects, potentially changing development patterns in the city.